Gifs: 7 Epic Moments from Independence Day

It’s the 4th of July, AKA Independence Day! In honor of the holiday, let’s take a look back to the Summer of 1996, when 20th Century Fox’s hugely-grossing blockbuster Independence Day hit US theatres on July 2nd, just before midnight July 3rd.

The movie’s release was a full-fledged success and overnight sensation, grossing $817,400,891; the second-highest at the time. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic moments, in GIF form:

Downtown LA about to get tore up

The White House getting tore up

New York City after getting tore up/Lady Liberty faceplant

Captain Steve Hiller (Will Smith) calling a close encounter

Our first look at the alien without its biomechanical exoskeleton. Slimy yet sleek.